TasPorts' Community Grant Program supports impactful projects across Tasmania, fostering environmental protection, education, and community engagement to safeguard vital coastal and marine ecosystems for future generations.
Posted
06 January 2025
TasPorts' Community Grant Program is making a tangible difference to Tasmania’s coastal and marine environments by supporting innovative projects that promote environmental protection and community engagement. By funding initiatives led by local organisations, schools, and conservation experts, the program helps foster awareness, education, and sustainable practices. Here are three recent examples of the program’s impact.
Engaging island communities for shorebird conservation
On Flinders and King islands, a project led by Bird Life Australia is championing the protection of threatened shorebird species while fostering community awareness. Through community talks, supported by contemporary survey data, residents will learn about the critical breeding habitats of shorebirds and simple measures to minimise disturbances, such as keeping dogs on leads and limiting 4WD access to beaches during breeding seasons.
“Alerting members of the community to the benefits of protecting key breeding sites will assist ongoing efforts to safeguard these species,” BirdLife’s Eric Woehler said.
By aligning with efforts from Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service and local authorities, the project not only enhances community ownership of conservation efforts but also highlights the national and international significance of Tasmania’s coastal ecosystems.
Marine conservation education with the White Rock Project
The Great Southern Reef Foundation’s White Rock Educational Resource Kit is bringing marine conservation to classrooms across Tasmania. Linked to the documentary White Rock, the kit equips teachers with curriculum-aligned materials that delve into the ecological impacts of the long spined sea urchin on the Great Southern Reef.
Packed with lesson plans, interactive activities, and insights from Tasmanian Aboriginal communities aims to inspire sustainable ocean stewardship.
“The project fosters a deeper connection between students and their local marine environment, promoting sustainable practices,” Stefan Andrews, Director of Education and Impact at the Great Southern Reef Foundation said.
Teacher training workshops and widespread resource distribution ensure this initiative leaves a lasting impression, sparking community-wide environmental action.
Shorebird education for future generations
The Shorebird School Education Project is building awareness among students in Northeast Tasmania by teaching students about protecting beach-nesting birds like Hooded Plovers and Fairy Terns. Supported by TasPorts’ funding, the program combines engaging classroom sessions with immersive field trips for students at St Helens and St Marys schools.
Through birdwatching, scavenger hunts, and role-playing activities, students learn how to minimise disturbances to shorebirds.
“Educating our students now will ensure our local environment will be in good hands in the future,” St Helens District High School Assistant Principal, Fiona Taylor said.
The program’s ripple effect extends to families, with children sharing conservation messages at home, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
A Lasting Legacy
TasPorts' Community Grant Program demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing critical environmental challenges. By supporting projects that engage communities, educate future generations, and protect vital ecosystems, TasPorts is creating positive change for Tasmania’s critical coastal and marine environments.
These initiatives not only highlight the importance of conservation but also inspire broader community involvement, ensuring that Tasmania’s unique natural heritage is protected for generations to come.